English League star Roby rejects NRL offers to stay in ESL

Regarded as one of the games best hookers, James Roby has made the decision to remain in the ESL for another 4 years, after he signed a new deal with St Helens.

With several NRL clubs circling the 25-year-old, Roby decided that it was best for his career to remain in the ESL, as he is impressed with the direction that St Helens are going in.

With Roby’s decision to stay in the ESL, new Saints coach Royce Simmons is hoping that Roby will be able to convince the ESL’s best prop in James Graham to remain at the ESL club.

Graham, who is off contract at the end of next season as approximately 8 clubs reportedly chasing him, but he has vowed to discuss his future with St Helens also.

Roby has been given that No. 9 jersey, after club stalwart Keiron Cunningham retired, a player in which Roby idolised and looked up to for advice in his own career.

It was a big but ultimately easy decision for me,” said Roby, a former Super League Man of Steel winner, who has scored 58 tries in 203 appearances for his home-town club.

“The Saints have been my only club and are only going to get stronger.

“We are moving to a fantastic new training facility this season and to a new stadium the next. We’ve got a top new coach in Royce Simmons and have made some great new signings for next season.

“The next few years will be more than exciting for the club and at a time when I should be reaching my own peak.”

Eamonn McManus, the St Helens chairman has said: “This is a big boost for us and a clear endorsement of the future of the club.

“James is one of the best players in the world and crucial to our continued success. Having come through our academy and been at the heart of our success in recent years, he represents all that we strive for and produce at the club.”